The Yucatán & Mayan Riviera

Tropical flowers in fuchsia, yellow and orange. The dark green leaves of almond and tamarind trees. Couples dressed all in white, sitting on ornate stone benches ringing the central plaza or "xocolo". The capital of the state of Yucatán, this sunny city is also the perfect base for excursions to the ancient Mayan Empire. But check out the city's sites first: A licensed, local guide will take you to the Cathedral of San Il defonso, located on the central Plaza de Armas. Begun in 1563, the Cathedral is the oldest on the American mainland, with the oldest true dome in Mexico. See what many consider Mexico's most "dignified" church interior, complete with thick Tuscan columns, a coffered nave and high altar. Step back outside and walk across the sunny plaza to the Government Palace to see huge murals depicting scenes of the Spanish conquest of the Yucatán Peninsula and aspects of the Mayan culture that still flourish. Continue to Progreso Beach, a favorite seaside resort lined with turn-of-the-century mansions.

What did this region look like before the Spaniards arrived? Set off to Uxmal, one of the largest and most powerful of the former Mayan cities, to see. A licensed, local guide will lead you through the wooded valley to the wide, uncrowded plazas, where you'll find some of the best-proportioned Mayan buildings known. See the restored Magician's Pyramid, a three-tiered structure built between the 6th and 10th centuries, the grand Governor's Palace, and the Nunnery Quadrangle, four buildings surrounding a central courtyard, resembling a monastery or nunnery.

Still confused about Mayan ways? Learn more about the Mayan culture with a Sound and Light show - a visual blast from the past.

Visit the small city of Valladolid where the townspeople still dress in traditional Mayan clothing, the buildings in the main plaza are painted in brilliant pastel colors, and the local women sell their home-made arts and crafts in the central square. Wander through the main plaza and browse through the embroidered blouses and shawls for sale, explore the historic neighborhoods, the seven local churches and visit the impressive San Bernardino Convent for a true feel of this Yucatan city.

See the melding of Mayan and Catholic culture at Izamal, where the enormous 16th-century Convent of St. Anthony stands atop the ruins of an ancient Mayan pyramid. The church's atrium, almost as large as St. Peter's in Rome, holds newly discovered frescoes. The ruins of other Mayan temples surround the site, giving Izamal the nickname "City of the Hills."

Ruins, ruins everywhere. Join a licensed, local guide for a visit to Chichén Itzá, one of the country's most famous Mayan sites. The city dates from around the 7th century AD (though there is evidence of farmers living here as early as the 4th century BC). A major trade and ceremonial center, Chichén Itzá is known for its huge, 365-stepped, four-sided, pyramid El Castillo, as well as other buildings, sculptures and carved murals.

Slip into the cool and shadowed world of the mystical Ikkil Cenote, where the turquoise water promises relief from the blistering heat outside. This underground cave was held sacred by the Mayans and has been a source of fascination for travelers since ancient times.

Add to the record books -- Playa del Carmen is now, according to the Guinness Book of World Records, the fastest growing town in the world. Attracted by the gorgeous white-sand beach and stunning blue water, the town's newcomers maintain Playa's friendliness and vibrancy. Check out the beach or shop for souvenirs along the bustling main strip.

Encounter colorful fish and coral reefs as you snorkel or swim offshore from Akumel, a beautiful Caribbean beach (please note that snorkeling equipment will be available to rent and is not included in the price of the tour).

See the Mayan idea of a beach town. Tulum is the largest Mayan coastal city and one of Cancún’s favorite daytrips. Survey the limestone ruins, the surrounding lush jungle, and the super-blue ocean with your Tour Director.

Spend an afternoon soaking up some vitamin D on the fine white sands of Playa del Carmen, named for the patron saint of Cancún. The turquoise waters offer ample opportunity to explore the marine life and reefs in the Caribbean Sea. So pack your snorkel and fins!